One Fall, a Three-Hour Hospital Visit, and a Bill of Just $320
Anyone who lives here in Panama knows that the Panamanian people are exceptionally kind, caring, and helpful…and that their healthcare system is inexpensive and efficient.
Healthcare
Healthcare is one of the most important factors potential expats consider before moving abroad and often one of the hardest to plan for in the U.S.
Anyone looking to retire overseas is concerned with the quality of the healthcare that will be on offer in their new overseas country. How can I gauge the calibre of the healthcare I could receive? Is it possible to get medical treatment as good as what’s available in the U.S. and Canada? The answer…a resounding yes. Sometimes it’s even better than what’s on offer at home, and at a more affordable price too.
Measuring the quality of healthcare is difficult, and it’s hard to put a number on it. We can, however, put a number on the price of medical procedures, the range of medical facilities and their world rankings.
In fact, many of the countries we speak about are leaders in the medical field, scoring high in the World Health Organisations ranking of healthcare systems. France, Colombia, Portugal, Spain, Costa Rica are just some of our favorite overseas retirement havens that score higher than both Canada and the U.S.
Surprised? You shouldn’t be. The United Nations has also ranked Costa Rica’s public health system within the top 20 worldwide and the number one in Latin America.
From dental work, to joint reconstruction, to regular doctor’s visits, healthcare abroad doesn’t have to be a pain. With low barriers to entry, ease of use and flexibility, it’s no small wonder more people are turning their backs on the high healthcare costs in the U.S. for more accessible healthcare abroad.
Discover where to find the best quality, most affordable healthcare in the world from our expert expats, who share their overseas healthcare experiences. Our extensive library of articles below will give you new ideas about places where healthcare is both affordable and high quality.
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Healthcare Archives
Enjoy Great Healthcare and a Low Cost of Living in Grecia, Costa Rica
Part of the reason my wife and I chose to begin our Costa Rican adventure in the Central Valley town of Grecia was its proximity to San José and the airport, as well as the beautiful scenery and temperate climate.
Why is Healthcare So Much Cheaper Outside the U.S.?
A recent survey reported that a single day in a hospital in the U.S. costs, on average, $1,514 (up to as much as $12,537), while in France it costs $853. An appendectomy in the U.S. costs $8,156 on average (up to as much as $29,426). The same procedure in France costs $4,463.
“Which country offers a high level of affordable healthcare and medical coverage for expats living there?”
Hi IL Experts, My husband and I are looking into retiring overseas in the next year. We have been looking at the countries that your experts cover but have not made our decision yet. A major factor for us is the level of healthcare available in the country and what medical coverage and insurance would Read more...: “Which country offers a high level of affordable healthcare and medical coverage for expats living there?”
It Pays Big to Be a Retiree in Panama
I've booked my flight to Las Vegas for the Fast Track Your Retirement Overseas Conference in October. I'm looking forward to chatting with attendees, along with my compañera Jessica Ramesch, about life in Panama.
Affordable Real Estate and Excellent Healthcare in Beach-Town Colombia
The warmth of the sun on your face, gentle sea breezes blowing in your hair, the lovely aroma of warm salt air mixed with just a touch of fresh seafood, waves breaking on the sandy beaches and amazing sunsets…Santa Marta is a delight for all of your senses.
High Quality Dentistry at an Affordable Price in Costa Rica
This is just like in the States, I thought. And it was. The chair was the same uncomfortable leather lounger, set up at an uncomfortable angle. The smell of the office was the same sterile, stale air.
“Is Medellin my only option in Colombia or is there smaller towns that would still have reasonable levels of healthcare available?”
I am very interested in living in Colombia but I would like to get away from big city living. Is Medellin my only option in Colombia or is there smaller towns that would still have reasonable levels of healthcare available? Thanks, Pat Nancy Kiernan – Colombia Correspondent Dear Pat, I am so excited to hear Read more...: “Is Medellin my only option in Colombia or is there smaller towns that would still have reasonable levels of healthcare available?”
“Information on the level of healthcare available in different towns/areas in Costa Rica?”
Hello International Living Experts, I would just like some information on healthcare in Costa Rica in specific towns or areas. I am not sure where I am going to retire there yet but the level of healthcare available will be a factor for me. I am in my mid 60’s and in reasonable health but Read more...: “Information on the level of healthcare available in different towns/areas in Costa Rica?”
Affordable Living and Quality Healthcare in Cochabamba, Bolivia
Back in 1993, Fred, an Oklahoma native, took a teaching post in Cochabamba, which is now one of Bolivia’s most popular retirement destinations. He returned as a retiree 10 years ago and has lived here ever since with his wife Elizabeth, enjoying its highly affordable lifestyle.